Tess is back today to talk to Leah Clinton from Andrea Baker's paranormal romance, Worlds Apart: Leah, published by Taylor Street Books.
About the book:
Nightmares are just dreams, aren’t they? They cannot hurt you. They are just your mind playing tricks... Or are they?
Leah knows that her mother died in a car accident when Leah was small and that her father, who used to be the gentlest dad in the world, has become increasingly controlling and occasionally violent.
She also knows that her recurring dreams are telling her something more about how and why her mother died, and why her dad turned nasty, but they are becoming progressively more disturbing and confusing.
When Leah meets Ben, she is excited to have a friend she can confide in and have fun with, but is he what he seems?
The voice of Leah’s mother repeatedly tells her to rely on her instincts, but when Leah is run over in a freak accident and Ben’s family take over her welfare, are they protecting her or using her?
And why would anyone, good or evil, bother with an ordinary girl just about to go to university?
About the character:
Leah’s mother died when she was just fourteen, in a horrendous car accident. Since then her father has become more and more possessive over her, being paranoid about any boyfriends and, most recently, moving them both to Kenilworth so that she can stay at home rather than going away to University. Leah resents this a little, because she had always planned to go away to university with her best friend, Jen.
Leah doesn’t have much self-confidence; her father’s bizarre behavior and bad temper, plus a bad experience with a boyfriend have knocked that even further, so she is quite vulnerable and tends to keep to herself in order to avoid being made to look a fool. Highly intelligent, she spends her time reading, listening to music, chatting to Jen over the Internet, and exploring the ruined castle in her new hometown.
There’s a lot more to Leah than we see in this first book, but she needs to experience what happens in order to make her the person she becomes. To a certain extent, because of having lost her mother at such a young age, she’s a little naïve when it comes to life, but that soon disappears as the series unfolds!
Tess talks to Leah Clinton:
Leah, how did you first meet Andrea?
I’ve known her for a few years now, although it took me a while to get her to recognize me and really listen. I think she thought she was going mad to start with, listening to my voice in her head all the time – but then again, she might be right... Want to dish about her?
That wouldn’t be fair, because I still need her to finish my story...oh, go on then... (“DON’T YOU DARE!” shouts Andrea from the kitchen.) She’s pretty normal really, with a wicked sense of humor when you really know her. She’s quite shy though, and REALLY busy all the time!
Did you ever think that your life would end up being in a book?
No, not really, and it’s odd to think that people can read all about me, and think they know me simply because of what they have read so far.
Your life is like an open book, right? LOL. Ahem. Tell us about your favorite scene in the book.
My favorite scene – that has to be some of the ones with Ben, and it’s hard to pick just one...
Did you have a hard time convincing Andrea to write any particular scenes for you?
Yes, when she was writing about my nightmares. Not so much the writing of them, but asking me about them, and trying to get them right. I think she was worried she’d upset me. Now that I know what they really were though, they don’t affect me like they did back then.
What do you like to do when you're not entertaining a reader?
I go back and tell Andrea a little more. This last few months, since the book came out, it’s been harder to find the time to tell her the rest – matching my time with hers has been a bit of a problem, but we’re almost through the second book now, thankfully.
If you could rewrite anything in your book, what would it be?
I’d like to go into more depth at the end, but then that all appears in book two, so would it have spoiled it? That’s a really hard question to be honest – I think my readers need to know the rest of the story, but it was too long for a single book, so knowing where to end one, and start the other was hard.
Tell the truth. What do you think of your fellow characters?
I don’t think anyone needs me to describe how I feel about Ben, so let’s leave that one to the side, shall we? Well, if you insist...
Mr. and Mrs. Edwards, Ben’s parents. I know they looked after me after the crash, and Eloise helped me find the truth, but I really struggle with the way they treated Ben and I, and acted as though we were doing something wrong. I still don’t think I’ve seen the true them, only what they want me to see, and I can’t stand people that hide behind things.
Me either. The stories I could tell you about...oh. Sorry. This is your interview. Please continue!
As for the others, well I could get Andrea to write another book on that front, so I’ll leave it there for now.
Do have any secret aspirations that Andrea doesn’t know about?
Oh yes, there are a few things that Andrea doesn’t yet know, and I think they might just surprise everyone. If I let them slip though, the story won’t come out right, so I’m keeping her in suspense!
And us too! Hmmm...I'm thinking you're very mysterious. What impression do you make on people when they first meet you?
People think I’m a bit strange I suppose – I’m quite quiet, and after a bad experience in Clifford, where I grew up, I tend to avoid large crowds so that I can’t make a fool of myself. So it’s hard to get to know people really.
How about after they've known you for a while?
Once they know me, and I trust them, they usually quite like me - I’ve got a wicked sense of humor, although it’s hard for people to see that in this story, and I like all the things that most girls my age like. I’m quite intelligent though, and sometimes people don’t like that.
What's the worst thing that's happened in your life?
That’s got to be Mom dying, going out on a normal day, being cross with her because I couldn’t get what I wanted, just a normal day, at first...
Tell us about your best friend.
Jen’s fantastic – she’s everything I’m not. Lively, bubbly, and outgoing, you can always rely on her to know what it going on, and who is involved. She’s also beautiful – long chestnut brown hair that seems to shimmer in the sunlight, and the most beautiful blue-green eyes, her appearance masks how smart she is though.
How do you feel about your life right now?
My life is...interesting right now.
What, if anything, would you like to change?
I love interacting with my readers, and seeing what they make of my story, how they see things as they read what Andrea has written. There’s a lot of other stuff going on though, that if I told you, would both ruin the story for you in future, but also you probably wouldn’t believe!
What do you like best about Andrea's writing style do you like best?
I love how she understands me – how she’s written the book almost as though I were telling her direct, and she gets how I was feeling at that time.
If your story were a movie, who would play you?
That’s a really hard question, as they’re all so much prettier than me! It needs to be someone around my own age, so she’d need to be under 25, really. I’m only 19 at the start of the book, but that was a couple of years ago now. If it were an English actress, the first one that springs to mind that fits would be Emma Watson, but I’m probably too boring for her to be interested in playing me!
Describe the town where you live.
Kenilworth is quaintly British – it’s quite an old town in many ways, and there’s the Castle at one end (with all the magic that goes with it), and Abbey fields, with the swimming pool, tennis courts and remains of the old Abbey at the other. There’s a lot of history there, and not too much to do for anyone our age, but my university is only a couple of miles away, so you don’t have to go too far! So you and Andrea are writing a sequel?
I think I’ve already given that one away! Yes, we’re working on a sequel as we speak, and I’m trying to convince her to write more – but I guess that depends on how my surprises work out...
Good luck, then, and let me know when the next book is out!
About the author:
I am pretty ordinary really - daughter, wife, and mother to a
wonderful little girl. I am fortunate to live in the beautiful English
county of Warwickshire, where my first book is based.
Worlds Apart is a series of romantic fantasy books, the first of which, entitled Leah, was released on October 11th 2012.
The
first thirty thousand words were written within a matter of weeks. The
idea for Leah had been running around my mind for several months, in
pieces, but I couldn't find a way of bringing them together. Then one
day I was driving home from work through the lovely little town of
Kenilworth, in Warwickshire, England. It was stormy, and as I drove down
Castle Road, lightning lit up the Castle. It was a tremendous sight,
and suddenly all the pieces fell together.
The highly rated contemporary romance novel,Chasing Justice, is book 1 in the Piper Anderson series. Its author, Danielle Stewart is here today to tell us about it.
About the book:
Piper Anderson has been given a fresh start in the picturesque town of
Edenville, North Carolina. But her plans of settling into a normal life
are derailed when she witnesses a prominent judge in her community
committing a violent assault. Running from her own past and fueled by a
passion to make the judge answer for his crimes, Piper is forced to
decide if she’ll play by the rules or achieve justice in her own way.
Complicating
things further, Piper finds herself fighting a powerful attraction to
rookie cop, Bobby Wright. Although she’s increasingly enamored with
Bobby, his staunch belief in the justice system is in stark contrast to
her own. She may not share his opinions about the effectiveness of the
law, but she certainly can’t deny how safe she feels when she’s in his
arms or how every kiss leaves her desperate for more.
For Piper,
the idea of finally living an ordinary life with a man to love is
tempting. However, fate keeps placing the judge, quite literally, in her
path. Will she decide the only way to win is to be as wicked as the
judge, but with righteous intentions? And more importantly, will Bobby
choose to let her go, or follow her as she crosses the line and takes
justice into her own hands.
Interview with Danielle Stewart:
How long have you been writing, and how did you start?
My first real attempts at writing were in sixth grade. My teacher told me I had a real talent for it and that feedback stuck with me. I think when you are eleven years old and someone pays you a compliment it really makes an impact.
How did you come up with the title of your book?
Titles and covers are by far my least favorite part of the writing process. Settling on a title was really difficult but ultimately I think I flipped a coin. I couldn't take the stress!
Do you have another job outside of writing?
I chase a three-year-old. All day! All Night! I'm a stay-at-home mom.
The hardest job in the world. Truly. How would you describe your book in a tweet? (140 characters or less.)
Chasing Justice takes a right versus wrong and makes you wonder what you might do if it were you.
How did you create the plot for this book?
Talked! My writing process consists of calling my sister and talking out a plot. Then driving around in my car and talking out loud to myself.
Do you outline, write by the seat of your pants, or let your characters tell you what to write?
I outline in my head and then sit down and just write.
Do you ever get writer’s block? What do you do when it happens?
I complain... A lot. To anyone who will listen.
How do you get to know your characters?
I give them a voice. I let them talk to me whenever they have something to say. When you start a new book, do you know what the entire cast will be?
Nope! Sometimes I am as surprised as everyone else who joins the story.
Which character did you most enjoy writing?
I love writing Piper. She has been through hell, and she isn't all that aware of social norms. This can be fun.
I’m constantly on the lookout for new names. How do you name your characters?
My street team, "Danielle's Dynamos," help me with names. We're always looking for new
members of the group!
Tell us about your favorite scene in the book.
My favorite scene in the book is when Piper finally reveals here past to Bobby. It's been so long since she's had to speak these things out loud and it speaks to how much she cares for him. His reactions shows his feelings for her. We've all been afraid to share things with someone, and I think it's nice to see it work out well.
What song would you pick to go with your book?
Tough question! Something by Adele.
Who are your favorite authors?
Jodi Piccoult, Nicholas Sparks, Nora Roberts.
What books have you read more than once or want to read again?
I have read the Great Gatsby too many times to count!
How long is your to-be-read pile?
Since I've started writing full-time I've switched to audio books. It's helped me keep up
with my reading and I can multitask. I'm down to one kindle book a week now. The rest are audio.
I love audiobooks! I, also, "read" more on audiobook than anything else. If you could decide who would read your audiobook, who would you choose?
Meryl Streep.
Love her! What book are you currently reading and in what format (e-book/paperback/hardcover)?
I'm reading Ruth Cardello's Rise of the Billionaire. It's the sixth in the series and I'm so hooked.
Where’s home for you?
Charlotte NC
Name one thing you couldn’t live without.
Family.
Your last meal would be...
Pizza. Lots of Pizza
You won the lottery. What’s the first thing you would buy?
An RV to travel the country.
You’re given the day off, and you can do anything but write. What would you do?
A day at the beach with my husband and son.
From the author:
Writing is a way to make a lot of different people do exactly what you want them to do. When I can’t get my toddler to listen to me, I turn to my characters. They always cooperate!
I currently live in Charlotte, North Carolina with my husband and three year old son. I have perfected the ability to write in a noisy house and create story lines while folding laundry.
Historical Mystery writer Ellen Mansoor Collier is here today to talk about Bathing Beauties, Booze and Bullets, a Jazz Age Mystery #2. One reviewer called it "the ultimate fun read for the beach or backyard." With a whiff of romance, too!
About the book:
It’s 1927 in Galveston, Texas—the “Sin City of the Southwest.” Jasmine (“Jazz”) Cross is an ambitious 21-year-old society reporter for the Galveston Gazette who tries to be taken seriously by the good-old-boy staff, but the editors only assign her fluffy puff pieces, like writing profiles of bathing beauties. The last thing Jazz wants to do is compare make-up tips with ditzy dames competing in the Miss Universe contest, known as the “International Pageant of Pulchritude and Bathing Girl Revue.”
She’d rather help solve the murders of young prostitutes who turn up all over town, but city officials insist on burying the stories during Splash Day festivities. After Jazz gets to know the bathing beauties, she realizes there’s a lot more to them than just pretty faces and figures. Jazz becomes suspicious when she finds out the contest is also sponsored by the Maceos, aspiring Beach Gang leaders and co-owners of the Hollywood Dinner Club, where the girls will perform before the parade and pageant.
Worse, her half-brother Sammy Cook, owner of the Oasis, a speakeasy on a rival gang’s turf, asks her to call in a favor from handsome Prohibition Agent James Burton—an impossible request that could compromise both of their jobs and budding romance. While Agent Burton gives her the cold shoulder, she fends off advances from Colin Ferris, an attractive but dangerous gangster who threatens Sammy as well as Burton. In the end, she must risk it all to save her friends from a violent killer hell-bent on revenge. Inspired by actual events.
How long have you been writing, and how did you start?
I started writing as a kid, and my mom, who was a teacher and part-time writer, gave me my first functional toy typewriter when I was about 10. I took my first journalism class in high school, served on the school newspaper, and won a couple of writing awards (including a UIL award in News writing). In college (the University of Texas at Austin—hook ‘em horns), I majored in magazine journalism and wrote for the college magazine. I’ve been working as a freelance writer and editor most of my adult life. How did you come up with the title of your book?
Obviously I like alliteration, and wanted to make the titles in my Jazz Age series consistent and recognizable.
I love alliteration too! You're a freelance magazine writer/editor, what else do you do?
I also dabble in antiques and collectibles. I worked for two antiques dealers right after college, between journalism jobs, and caught the bug early. Unfortunately I was too broke to buy much so always put things on lay-away, like Jasmine.
How did you create the plot for Bathing Beauties, Booze and Bullets?
When I found out the Miss Universe pageant originated in Galveston as a bathing beauty contest, I wanted to create a mystery around the actual events. My original idea was more ominous and menacing, but I didn’t want to kill off too many characters!
Do you outline, write by the seat of your pants, or let your characters tell you what to write?
I’m definitely a pantser, not a plotter. With both books, I had a general idea of the plots, but they evolved and changed as I went along. Maybe I’d be more prolific if I plotted out everything first! Tell us about your cover art.
As an indie, I get to pick and choose my cover artwork and fonts. Luckily my brother, Jeff J. Mansoor, is a talented graphic artist and pulls it all together for me in an attractive design. I’m very visual and enjoy the process of designing my own covers. Sure, I’d love to be traditionally published, but I’d hate to give up this creative control!
Have you ever bought any books just for the cover?
Yes, I hate to admit, I do tend to judge a book by its cover. I’ve found that an artistic cover usually means the writing is good as well, but not always.
What do you do to market your books?
Since my mysteries are e-books, I’ve mainly spread the word through blog tours. I may get some hard copies printed up so I can distribute them to shops, hotels and bookstores.
Are you like any of your characters?
I’m definitely most like Jasmine, outspoken and curious, but I’ve never wanted to cover crime scenes or murders. I’m a wimp in real life! What five real people would you most like to be stuck on an island with?
As far as writers go, I’d love to meet Shakespeare, Agatha Christie, F. Scott & Daisy Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway. They’ve all had controversy and mystery in their lives, and I’d probably interview them to death (no pun intended)!
Good one! What have been your favorite books from childhood up to adulthood?
I enjoyed the Mary Stewart and Phyllis Whitney mysteries, so they were my biggest influence though I don’t write romantic suspense. Of course, I love Rebecca, especially the final twist—so creepy and atmospheric! Also I read a lot of Dorothy Parker’s short stories and poems in high school. Do you have a routine for writing?
Usually I just write when I’m inspired. I’m too hyper to sit and stare at a blank page. If I have writer’s block, I like to get up and move around, or go out and do anything but write. As a journalist, I like to set deadlines for myself since I’m a fanatic about meeting deadlines. I knew the Great Gatsby was coming out May 10 so I wanted to finish Bathing Beauties before then! Where and when do you prefer to do your writing?
I like to write late at night or early morning, when it’s quiet outside. I moved my laptop to the kitchen so I could have a view. If the weather is nice, I often edit outside (usually at Café Express or La Madeleine).
If you could take a trip anywhere in the world, where would you go?
How nice! All over the US, Australia and the UK for a book tour. For fun, I’d love to visit Greece, Austria, Spain, Belgium, Turkey, Portugal, Morocco, New Zealand...I love to travel.
Excerpt from Bathing Beauties, Booze and Bullets:
Sammy appeared, looking disheveled and rumpled, his shirt half-buttoned and dark hair curlier than usual. “What happened to you?” I asked, stifling a laugh.
“All those dames!” He gasped for breath. “Get a few drinks in ‘em and they turn into vultures! They were all over me!”
“I noticed. So what are you complaining about?” I teased him. “I thought you liked having a fan club around.”
“I do, but...” He looked down, smoothing out his shirt, then buttoned it back up. “I just feel so bad. I don’t know what to do...” His mood turned somber.
“About what? Amanda?” No secret my best friend had a big crush on my handsome half-brother.
“About everything...” He paced the tiny office, rubbing his unshaven face, as if trying to think. “I’m in a jam and I don’t know how to get out.”
“What kind of jam?” I could tell Sammy was stalling for time, so I went over to him and shook his arm, to stop his pacing. “Sammy, tell me what’s wrong.”
“It’s about the gangs. Their turf wars.”
“What else is new?” Galveston gangs had a long-standing rivalry, and it didn’t take much to set things off. Broadway served as the boundary separating the two gangs, and it was no-holds-barred if and when that line was crossed—the Beach Gang’s turf was located north of Broadway, and the Downtown Gang was south.
Naturally Sammy wanted to stay on good terms with both gangs, who controlled the flow of booze on the Island. Agent Burton had tried, but failed, to shut down their operations, but he did manage to cut off a few sources, including a dangerous bootlegger, for a while—with our help.
“What’s the latest feud about?” Word was, Ollie Quinn had set his sights on the Downtown Gang’s turf, and with his reckless wheeling and dealing, Johnny Jack seemed ripe for a coup.
“Let’s just say the Maceos don’t always see eye-to-eye with Ollie or Dutch Voight. They want to get out of the prostitution racket, but Ollie wants to line up houses all over the island, even set up shop in the clubs.” Sammy took out a Camel cigarette and lit it, avoiding my gaze.
I’d heard similar stories and Mack, our top reporter, confirmed several rumors in a hard-hitting series for the Gazette describing the turf wars, a string of eye-opening articles the gangs didn’t appreciate. In his latest piece, Mack quoted anonymous sources who claimed the Maceos were trying to oust Quinn and Voight, vying for the top spots in the Beach Gang.
“You don’t say. How does that affect you?”
“Word is, the Maceos want to break away from the Beach Gang, branch out onto new turf, start their own operation.” Sammy puffed away, hiding behind a cloud of smoke. “Johnny Jack knows we’re friends, and he didn’t care as long as they kept out of his way and left Market Street alone. But after the ice man hit, all hell broke loose. Now Johnny Jack wants to stop the Maceos cold before they muscle in on his territory.”
“How does he plan to do that?” After a string of recent killings, I saw first-hand how vicious the Galveston gangs could be if you double-crossed them.
Finally Sammy quit pacing and plopped down in his worn banker’s chair. “Jazz, you’ve got to help me. I need a favor, a big favor. ”
“What kind of favor?” I eyed him, skeptical. Sammy always made it clear that I was supposed to stay out of his business, for my own safety, but now he wanted my help?
“Remember the night I spent in jail? Somehow Johnny Jack got the idea that your Prohibition friend bailed me out. So now he thinks we’re best buddies.”
“That’s not true.” I bit my lip, feeling guilty, since I’d asked Agent Burton to get involved, to help get Sammy out of jail. Fortunately he’d managed just fine on his own.
“I just tolerate the guy ‘cause of you. But now I need his help.” Sammy leaned forward, elbows on his knees. “Johnny Jack’s putting the squeeze on me. He threatened to tell everyone in the Downtown Gang that I’m Agent Burton’s squealer if I don’t do what he wants.”
“His informant? Bunk! What does he expect you to do?”
His shoulders slumped. “He wants me to convince Burton to raid the Hollywood Dinner Club and shut it down—during the bathing beauty dance routine this Friday night.”
About Flappers, Flasks and Foul Play, Book 1 in the Jazz Age Mystery series
The Great Gatsby meets Midnight in Paris in this soft-boiled historical mystery, inspired by actual events. Rival gangs fight over booze and bars during Prohibition in 1920s Galveston: the “Sin City of the Southwest.” Jazz Cross, a 21-year-old society reporter, feels caught between two clashing cultures: the seedy speakeasy underworld and the snooty social circles she covers in the Galveston Gazette.
During a night out with her best friend, Jazz witnesses a bar fight at the Oasis--a speakeasy secretly owned by her black-sheep half-brother, Sammy Cook. But when a big-shot banker with a hidden past collapses there and later dies, she suspects foul play. Was it an accident or a mob hit?
Soon handsome young Prohibition Agent James Burton raids the Oasis, threatening to shut it down if Sammy doesn't talk. Suspicious, he pursues Jazz, but despite her mixed feelings she refuses to rat on Sammy. As turf wars escalate between two real-life rival gangs, Sammy is accused of murder. Jazz must risk her life and career to find the killer, exposing the dark side of Galveston's glittering society.
About the author:
Ellen Mansoor Collier is a Houston-based freelance magazine writer whose articles and essays have been published in several national magazines, including: Family Circle, Modern Bride, Glamour, Biography, Cosmo, Playgirl, etc. Several of her short stories have appeared in Woman's World. She’s profiled a variety of people, from CEOs and celebrities (including Suze Orman), to charity founders (Nancy Brinker et al) and do-gooders. A flapper at heart, she’s the owner of DECODAME, specializing in Deco to retro vintage items.
Formerly she’s worked as a magazine editor, and in advertising and public relations (plus endured a hectic semester as a substitute teacher). She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Magazine Journalism, where she enjoyed frou-frou cocktails and lots of lattes. When she’s not concocting stories, she enjoys traveling, shopping at flea markets, listening to instrumental jazz, reading cozy mysteries (of course) and taking walks with her husband Gary and hyper Chow mixes (Coco and Champagne).
The non-fictionpersonal account of a journey through infertility, I'm Not Crazy, I'm on Lupron by Stacey Rourke will launch on June 30.
About the book: Basal body temperatures. Hormone injections. Invasive procedures - that leave no room for modesty. Tips on “effective positions” from well-meaning grandparents.
When the natural way fails to work, these are all added to the so called “fun” process of making a baby. Walk this rocky path to motherhood with author Stacey Rourke as she openly and honestly shares every good, bad, and awkward step of her three-year-long journey. Using humor to break through the perils of infertility, she gives the lowdown on all the strange, embarrassing, and heartbreaking aspects. Stacey guides us through an unforgettable path that ends with a kid on each hip and hope for all those suffering with infertility.
BONUS MATERIAL: “Morsels of Hope:” Success Stories from Infertility Survivors
Check back here on June 30 for a Bookblast giveaway. The prize is a $25 Amazon gift card, signed paperback, and rack card.
Today I'm excited to welcome another cozy mystery author, Annie Adams. Like another book we all know and love :), Annie's novel, The Final Arrangement, is a humorous mystery that features a woman sleuth. This highly-rated first book in the Flower Shop MysterySeries is set in Northern Utah and has bad guys, lots of laughs, and funny characters.
About the book:
The Vulture is dead.
The body of Quincy McKay’s nemesis and biggest competitor in the floral business has just been discovered in a casket at the mortuary, complete with flowers on the lid.
Derrick Gibbons, aka The Vulture, stole all of Quincy’s funeral business, and now she’s on a mission to get it back. But there’s a problem—Quincy is now the main suspect in The Vulture’s murder.
Armed with only her Zombie delivery van, good intentions, and the business card of a handsome cop named Alex, she must find the killer, save the flower shop, and keep from ending up in the next casket. If she can dodge burning bushes, the plague of a polygamist ex, and her mother’s Mormon Mafia Spy Network, her life with Alex and her shop could become the perfect arrangement.
Interview with Annie Adams:
How did you come up with the title of your book?
After blood, sweat, tears, and many Cokes with my critique partner, the working title was nixed. About two months later, she and I went shopping and on the drive back to work, we talked about someone we knew who had to make the final arrangements on the estate of a family member who had passed. We looked at each other and said, “That’s it!”
What do you do "in the real world?"
I own and operate a full service flower shop.
Do you outline, write by the seat of your pants, or let your characters tell you what to write?
For me it’s an amalgamation of all of the above. I’ve tried to be a strict outliner--that experience lasted about 5 minutes. I think combining all the methods of writing is actually an ability which serves me well at the flower shop. Multi-tasking is the name of the game, you have to be able to juggle projects and timing everyday, so I consider it a talent—one at which both Quincy and I are always trying to do better. How did your your cover art come about?
I helped create the overall concept, design, and color scheme of the cover, and my brilliant cover designer (Kelli Ann of Inspire Creative Services) used her skills to produce what she and I imagined. It was quite and undertaking for both of us and let’s just say she has a tremendous amount of patience!
What books have you read more than once or want to read again?
I read Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series over and over again, and I love Lizzy and Diesel in “Wicked Appetite.” I’ve read many Agatha Christie books many times over and I’ve rented the television series she used to produce and write.
Tell us a book you’re an evangelist for.
This is outside my current genre, but I just love “Gone Girl,” by Gillian Flynn. I quipped once on Facebook that my book was in the rankings on the Amazon Free list right next to “Gone Girl” in the paid column and Gillian “liked” my comment, which sent me over the moon!
Have you ever bought any books just for the cover?
I go to the book store and the library just to look at cover art every month or so. The intrigue of the cover doesn’t always match the insides, but this is rare.
When you start a new book, do you know what the entire cast will be?
No. The next book in The Flower Shop Mystery Series is called Deadly Arrangements. I “mapped” out the rough outline and cast of characters and within the first chapter had found another who wasn’t in the original line up. I love it when the characters take over! Which character did you most enjoy writing?
It depends upon my mood. K.C. makes me laugh, Alex makes me swoon, and Quincy makes me frustrated. Quincy’s mom makes me shake my head and smile knowing she’s not likely to change.
I’m constantly on the lookout for new names. How do you name your characters?
The Flower Shop MysterySeries is set in Northern Utah. In Utah, we have a rich cultural heritage from many different groups. One of the little quirks of our heritage is the interesting names of people. I try to reflect that. I thought LaDonna was a fairly made up name—which I came up with over two years ago. Just last month I had floral deliveries for two different LaDonna’s in a week’s time.
I also enjoy names that reflect a little bit about the character, and some that just “sound good” as they roll off the tongue.
I like writing characters who do and say things I never would, as well as characters who do and say things I wish I could. Do you have characters who fit into one of those categories? Who, and in what category do they fall?
I think people would agree that both Quincy and K.C. do some of both. It isn’t always a good quality, but nobody’s perfect...right?
Who are your favorite authors?
Janet Evanovich, Diane Mott Davidson, Agatha Christie, Madelyn Alt (please write another one!), Jonathan Kellerman, Rhys Bowen.
Do you have a routine for writing?
Ugh! I’m always in the pursuit of being organized. I go to the office supply store and lovingly pass my hands over the beautiful calendars, day-planners and packages of similar software. Then I shrug and realize it’s never going to happen.
Where’s home for you?
Home is my house at the foot of the Wasatch Mountains, home is my parent’s house on my Grandpa’s farm. Home is with my husband. Home is with my aunts and uncles, siblings, and nieces and nephews on Grandma day every week in her family room.
If you could take a trip anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Everywhere! I really do mean it.
What are you working on now?
Deadly Arrangements, book two in The Flower Shop Mystery Series: Planning a wedding can be murder!
About the author:
Annie Adams is the author of The Final Arrangement,
book one in The Flower Shop Mystery Series. She lives with her husband,
two giant dogs, and two too giant cats in Northern Utah at the foot of
the Wasatch Mountains. When not writing, she can be found arranging
flowers or delivering them in her own Zombie Delivery Van.
I'm happy to have Matt Patterson here today to tell us about his memoir, My Emily, a bittersweet account of a little girl's brief but meaningful life, told
by a father who both celebrates her life and grieves her death. If this book doesn't touch your heart, just drive yourself to the nearest funeral home, because you're dead. This book isn't only a must read for parents of special needs children, but it
is also a must read for people who question the power of God, and people
who are seeking to find answers in the midst of pain. Matt
shows that God is at work in ways we don't understand, but even in
tragedy there are blessings. My Emily is free on Kindle on June 11-12 and .99 June 13-16.
About the book:
Honorable Award Winner - 2012 Reader's Favorite Book Awards
Finalist - 2012 National Indie Excellence Book Awards
Finalist - 2012 Next Generation Indie Book Awards
This book tells the story of a hurting family, an amazing little girl and a mysteriously faithful God.
Emily wasn't born perfect - so one might think. She was born with Down Syndrome and many would jump to the conclusion that she would have very little hope for a life with any significance. Two years later came the diagnosis of leukemia. What little hope remaining turned to no hope whatsoever - or so one might think.
The life of this little girl, with all its perceived imperfections, had great meaning. Her loving nature and courage touched the hearts of everyone she met. She also taught them how to value their own lives - even with their many "imperfections."
Interview with Matt Patterson:
You have a journalism background and have been a writer for over twenty years, yet it took you about twenty years to write My Emily. What finally made you decide to write the book?
Some 20 years ago, I sat down at my desk in a noisy newsroom and began to bang out my weekly newspaper column for a small daily in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
I covered the courts and crime beat for The Daily Mining Gazette, but I tried my very best to distance those stories from my column.
I tried to present my readers with a different side to the guy whose by-line was normally associated with misdemeanors or felonies. The column was my opportunity to show readers I was human and that I actually had a sense of humor. And as a relatively new father, my young daughters were normally my subjects.
But on this particular column, this was going to be difficult and special simultaneously. It was our first daughter’s birthday. I wanted to relay in this column how much she had taught and touched me in what seemed to be a very short time here on earth. This column was about my two-year-old daughter Emily, who about a year prior, had passed away after a brave battle with leukemia. Emily was also born with Down syndrome.
This column – as short as it could be – walked readers through her birth and eventual death. It told them of our shock and dismay at hearing words like Down syndrome and leukemia. It was short and sad. It was touching and a tribute.
For me, it was a release.
Two decades later, God has turned my tragedy into blessing and grief into mission.
This newspaper column has turned into a book – My Emily – and this book is my small effort to help families who have special needs children, little ones battling cancer or those heartbroken parents who have lost a child. Writing the column, the book and even this interview is comfort for me. It’s an opportunity to perhaps help or touch someone. I love the story about when Emily was born and you thought she was a boy. Would you tell it again for those who haven't yet read the book?
To say I wanted a boy would be a massive understatement. I think any father has that frame of mind when expecting their first child.
With this enthusiasm and preoccupation of having a boy I did make a slight mistake at the height of delivery.
As I continued to coach my wife to breathe and push, I began to see the crown of the head. The shoulders and torso quickly followed.
I yelled out – “It’s a boy!”
The nurse then quickly advised me, “Uh, Mr. Patterson – that’s the umbilical cord. You have a baby girl.”
I tried to make a quick recovery and said something like … “I knew that.”
Right Matt.
Sure. It's great that you can laugh at yourself. Tell us about Emily before she got sick.
She was just an absolute bundle of joy. Always had smiles, kisses, high-fives, and love for anyone and everyone. Actually she carried this joy with her even through her treatments. Nurses and medical technicians would actually try to change their assigned patients to be able to care for her. Her joy and love was so very pure. It’s truly hard to put into words sometimes.
I know rocking Emily to sleep every night was so special to you. What's another of your happiest memories of Emily?
Besides getting my morning high-fives and “smoochies” (kisses) from her, I’d have to say seeing her smile when I walked in the door from work are memories embedded in my mind and heart. I love the quote by Nayely Saldana: "We met for a reason, either you're a blessing or a lesson." It seems that Emily was both. What lessons did she teach you?
My goodness. This is a wonderful, yet difficult question to answer.
Emily taught me to never underestimate the impact one can have on others, no matter what the circumstances are. She left a legacy of courage, strength, and love that will live with me for the rest of my days on this earth.
She also taught me to never waste a moment to tell those closest to you how much you love them. I ask anyone who is reading this to take a moment and call someone you truly need to. Tell them you love them. That they’re important to you. We live in a time where communication can be shared in so many ways. If calling is awkward at this time. Perhaps a text message or a private message on any of the countless social media outlets that are available to us today. Never underestimate the power of a hand-written message on a card. The important thing is to not wait.
How does a parent cope when he's told his child has leukemia? You have to be strong for your child, but how do you find strength for yourself?
As a father, I put myself last. Any parent in this situation does this. Find the time and a quiet place to pray, meditate, and put your words on paper, if possible. From a physical standpoint, your body just runs. It finds another gear, more fuel – a level of adrenaline you’ve never experienced. I believe the emotional and spiritual aspect is as important, if not more important than the physical. You mention in your book that prior to the health crisis with Emily, you didn't really know how to pray. Can you explain that?
Absolutely. At that time, we considered ourselves a “praying” family. We prayed before we left for school and work each morning, as well as every night before we hit the hay! I “prayed” personally and with my wife. We prayed and we prayed!
At times, I think it’s safe to say that we can get into a prayer rut. At least I did. We find ourselves saying the same thing and asking for help and for things that we look at as blessings – such as a better paying job, bigger home, better car, etc. I now look at those prayers as selfish bellyaching more than anything. I was just going through the motions.
I point out in the book that our prayers become more humble, specific, and heartfelt once a crisis strikes. When Emily was diagnosed with leukemia – let me tell you – my prayers took on a massive overhaul.
What do you hope other people will get from your book?
I just want to convey that in even in our darkest days - God is good. He is. He really, really is.
You can open your heart to him. It can be in sadness, happiness and even anger. You can let Him have it. He wants you to. He wants open, honest and real communication. He loves us. He wants us to come to Him. It's then we find out that He is good. Really, really good.
It’s my belief that each of us grieve differently. For example, I’ve always wanted to share Emily’s story, but was I ready to minister and comfort others some 20 years ago? Heck, 20 months ago? I’d have to say no. Now that I have a better understanding of the grieving process, I can truly say my passion to share Emily’s story and help others is at a level that’s difficult to quantify. It becomes very personal and emotional some days. There are still days when I need to lean on those closest to me for support and comfort. Sometimes all we need to be is a shoulder for someone. There have been times I was that shoulder, but in actuality, they were being mine as well.
In the book you say, "If we don't think we have experienced God's comfort yet, then we need to evaluate our attitude toward Him. Perhaps each of us should ask ourselves, 'How is my attitude affecting God's ability to comfort me?'" During the ordeal of fighting leukemia, did you feel God's comfort?
I have to say yes and no. When I did take that time to pray and meditate, I felt a sense of comfort – a relief, perhaps. Probably some of the hardest moments were waiting for test results. There were so many emotions running through my mind and heart. This comfort allowed me to recoup mentally, physically, spiritually and emotionally, preparing me for that next hurdle in her treatment.
Did you treat life differently after Emily went into remission?
We treated it like the most precious gift. We weren’t going to waste a second, minute, hour, or day. And we didn’t.
The joy of remission became the agony of relapse after just a few precious months. How did you cope with the sudden plunge of the roller coaster?
Great question! I really don’t believe there was time to cope. It was a very immediate and intense focus. My reaction was, “How are we going to get Emily back into remission? What do we need to do? Tell me what we need to do. I’ll do anything. Just tell me.”
Upon Emily's passing, you talk of a line the hospital staff formed outside her room just to say goodbye. How was she able to have such an effect on people?
The words that first come to mind are: innocence, love, joy, and smile. I have such a very deep respect for those who work in the specialty of pediatric oncology. It’s so emotional. I know I could never do it.
I believe some people look at Emily’s life and say that her birth with Down syndrome wouldn’t have led to a life with much significance. Toss in the diagnosis of leukemia just two years later and that life of little significance was now at zero. I say to those who think like that – I beg to differ. This little girl whose innocence, love, joy, and smile touched these hearts enough for them to line up at 1 a.m. outside of her ICU room. Some of these people who were in this line came from their homes. And today, some 20-plus years later, she still touches hearts.
After her death, you talk of your anger with God. Understandable! How did you repair your relationship with Him?
To be completely and perfectly honest, I think I had very little to do with it. It was all God.
I was indeed mad at God. I would ask that magic question that many of us who have traveled this road and that is, “Why?”
Why do you allow a special needs child to battle leukemia? You allow her to suffer through chemotherapy and bring her into remission. Then, you allow her to relapse and endure an even more intense regimen of chemotherapy.
WHY?
Shortly after returning to our home base in Mississippi following Emily’s funeral. I would bump into people I hadn’t seen in weeks. They would of course ask how Emily was doing. I would then have to relate that she had passed away. It was painful. I couldn’t finish the story without crying.
Thing was, as I shared the story of Emily’s strength and courage, I began to realize that each of these opportunities were the path that led me to repairing my relationship with God. It allowed me to express appreciation for everything everyone had done for her and for us. What advice would you give folks who are going through pain or tragedy?
Here are a couple recommendations; everything doesn’t work for everyone:
Be willing to reach out and ask for and accept help! Don’t try to bury your pain. I also recommend that couples or individuals keep a journal. Pour out your heart on these pages. It’s healthy. I also recommend prayer and/or meditation. It can cleanse your heart, soul, and spirit.
One thing I do know. If you keep these emotions of pain, hurt and anger buried inside, it can lead to not only emotional issues, but it will also take a toll on your health! You have made it your mission to tell Emily's story to the world. How are you doing that?
Plain and simple – I’ll share the book or audiobook with anyone and everyone who will read or listen. In addition, I have started reaching out to speak. I am truly passionate about sharing Emily’s story to anyone who will listen. I tailor my presentations specifically to meet the needs of any group or organization. For those interested, they can fill out the contact information on my website under the “Request Matt” tab.
Which ways of marketing and promotion have you found to be the most effective?
I think it’s different for everyone. For me? I have found the use of Kindle Select to be effective, especially when using a combination of daily cross-promotion with other authors using twitter. In addition, when having a promotion on Kindle Select, I try to implement guest posts/interviews on blogs. What do you do in your free time?
Free time? I get that?
I do my best to spend time with my family, go to the gym to exercise, hit a good movie or just relax out by my pool. Living in Arizona, we get a little more pool time than others who live in different parts of the country.
Where's home for you?
I have called Arizona home for the last 13 years. I love the climate here. Sure, it gets hot – then again, you don’t have to shovel sunshine. If you have air conditioning, covered parking, ceiling fans and a swimming pool – all is well!
Okay, now for some silly questions. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
I recently visited San Diego. That’s not a shabby place to call home, especially if you have an ocean view!
If you could only keep one book, what would it be?
The easiest one of the bunch! My Emily, of course!
Your last meal would be...
Two foot-long cheeseburger subs from Captain Harvey’s back home in Baltimore. Extra grilled onions and extra hot peppers! Throw in a side of fries smothered in Old Bay seasoning. Why two? Hey, you said it was my last meal, didn’t you? Would you rather work in a library or a bookstore?
I would definitely take the library over the bookstore. Why? I think the retail aspect of a bookstore would ruin it for me.
You won the lottery. What’s the first thing you would buy?
Whatever my father wants. He has ALWAYS been there for me whenever I’ve needed anything. Time to return the favor.
After making sure my family is cared for, organizations that assist families who have special needs children, those battling pediatric cancers and families who have lost children would be receiving checks, for sure! Name five people with whom you would pick to be stranded in a bookstore.
Napoleon Hill - Dale Carnegie - Mitch Albom – Rick Warren – Jack Canfield.
What’s one of your favorite quotes?
“Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened.” – Dr. Seuss What three books have you read recently and would recommend?
Short and sweet – it works for me. Given the nature of My Emily, I want to keep a closer eye on things. I also hear horror stories from other authors who have gone with small or what others call vanity publishers, and I wouldn’t wish that on anyone.
For the most part, publishers – large or small – still want you to market yourself as if you were self-published. I have no problem marketing my book or myself. The atmosphere in the industry has changed drastically. Having to do the work myself has given me a wealth of knowledge. I have been approached by agents regarding My Emily and for now, it’s best that I stay self-published. This may change somewhere down the line, but for today, I’m VERY HAPPY to be self-published.
What are you working on now?
Right now, I am very focused on building my speaking platform. In addition, I am working on a book related to men and grief, which will be released later this year.
Excerpt from My Emily:
Once we heard the word “chemotherapy,” one of our first thoughts was Emily was going to lose her beautiful hair.
Emily’s soft, thin, strawberry blonde hair was like silk – absolutely beautiful. It’s amazing we stop to realize how beautiful a little one’s head of hair is when we learn that it’s going to fall out.
Bonnie was very quick to act, asking for a spray bottle with water, rubber bands and a pair of sharp scissors. My wife always enjoyed primping her little girl’s hair. From nicely brushed with a beret to pinned up with ribbons and little, braided ponytails, our Emily’s hair was always pristine.
With Emily lying in her hospital bed, Bonnie sat her up and prepared to give her a very special haircut. She sprayed her little girl’s hair and brushed it thoroughly. Before beginning the cut, she proceeded to make six tight, little braids of hair. Given the placement of the braids, I really didn’t understand what she was attempting to accomplish.
“What are you doing?” I asked.
“You’ll see,” Bonnie responded.
My wife then started to crop each of the braids. I really began to question what my wife was trying to do. “Um, if you don’t mind me asking, I’m lost here. Again, what in the heck are you doing?”
Bonnie, with tears in her eyes answered, “Emily is going to lose her hair Matt. I love her hair. I love doing her hair. Her hair could be gone for some time and again, this may be the last time she has hair. I have to prepare myself for that. I’m saving these braids for us.”
After attaching each of the braids to separate pieces of paper, Bonnie began cutting and trimming her daughter’s hair in a short, but cute style that would limit any mess once her hair began to fall out.
It didn’t take long.
Within just a few days of treatment, her locks – one by one – began to attach themselves to her pillowcase. Then, the harsh reality of chemotherapy took its place – front and center.
Emily would often look at us and cry for help. Someone so small and so innocent had no idea why this was being done to her. We did all we could to comfort her. We felt helpless.
If that wasn’t enough, we would then learn the incidence of leukemia in children with Down syndrome is greatly increased in comparison with the general population.
In a sit-down with our physician, he indicated that it is estimated the risk of leukemia for children under 10 years of age is increased by at least 18 times if they have Down syndrome. He told us that nearly one in a little less than 100 children with Down syndrome develops leukemia, compared with one in every 2,000 children without Down syndrome.
Wasn’t the Down syndrome enough? My gosh! I thought to myself with clenched teeth. Come on God. Can’t you give us a break? For crying out loud!
About the author:
Matt Patterson is a highly sought-after
inspirational speaker, as well as an award-winning and international
best-selling author.
His first published work - My Emily - has been
an Amazon top-rated best-seller. This debut book has also received
recognition as an award winner and finalist in the Readers Favorite Book
Reviews & Awards Contest, the Next Generation Indie Book Awards, as
well as the National Indie Excellence Book Awards.
Matt's background
includes 20-plus years in marketing communications, public and media
relations, as well as print and broadcast journalism.
In addition to
speaking and writing, he volunteers his time to helping organizations
and charities dedicated to assisting families with children who have
special needs or those battling pediatric cancers.
To learn more
about Matt and how you can bring him to speak at your next conference or
event, please visit www.my-emily.com or www.mattpatterson.me.
I'm welcoming Christine Meunier here today to tell us about her novel, Horse Country, a new adult work of fiction, set in Australia. Horse Country will be available in hard copy and eBook on July 1. Check Christine's website for updates.
About the book:
Christine Meunier has lived a life breathing, dreaming and working with horses in the thoroughbred industry in Australia and has also traveled overseas to work in the industry. Horse Country takes her own personal experiences woven into a story about four young women studying and working in the horse industry.
Follow Lise and Wes as they work their way around North East Victoria, Australia in the seasonal world of breeding thoroughbreds. Horse Country follows the seasons of the thoroughbred industry and what the day to day of working on a stud could look like.
A few hours away, Maddie and Melanie are working hard in their parent’s metropolitan riding school, teaching others about horse riding and care of the horse. From the nervous first time rider, to the child who wants to run fast and jump high, the young women shape lessons to suit the individual.
Horses offer a great opportunity to study, learn, work and develop an incredible career around the world. Set in Australia, this novel shows that the land down under is indeed a Horse Country.
Interview with Christine Meunier:
How long have you been writing, and how did you start?
I love to write and have been creating stories for 15 or so years. However, this is my first novel that I have published.
Do you have another job outside of writing?
Absolutely! I teach about horses at a tertiary level in Australia, generally about the breeding of horses.
Do you outline, write by the seat of your pants, or let your characters tell you what to write?
Hmmm a bit of all three. Events occur or things are said that help me to establish characters and from here an outline is generated for future chapters. Then the characters take over!
Did you have any say in your cover art?
Yes. I was encouraged by my mother to get it done professionally and filled in a questionnaire from the designer of what I wanted. The cover photo is actually one I took whilst working on a stud. I’m rapt with what’s been designed.
What books have you read more than once or want to read again?
The Silver Brumby is my all time favourite that I could read over and again.
Tell us a book you’re an evangelist for.
The Bible. It’s got it all – romance, suspense, murder, good defeating evil and an incredible story of love.
What do you do to market your book?
I’m working on that currently, having created a personal .com website and Facebook page for the book, telling many I meet about the book, inviting friends to like the Facebook page, blogging regularly on the .com site and taking part in author features or interviews on other blogs. When you start a new book, do you know what the entire cast will be?
Not at all. Horse Country actually has four main characters which I hadn’t originally anticipated. There are some other minor but consistent roles that managed to make their way into the cast too.
Which character did you most enjoy writing?
I think Declan. Each of the four women have a little bit of me in them (though Maddie is the outspoken character that I at times wish I had the confidence to be!). But I love Declan’s laid back and amused outlook on life.
Are any of your characters inspired by real people?
Yes. I’d say that Wes most mirrors myself with regards to her walk in life and introduction to the world of breeding horses.
With which of your characters would you most like to be stuck on a deserted island?
Lise – she’s resourceful and levelheaded. Who are your favorite authors?
Elyne Mitchell, Francine Rivers, and Dick Francis.
What book are you currently reading and in what format (e-book/paperback/hardcover)?
"Those who follow the crowd get lost in it."--Rick Warren
About the author:
Christine Meunier considers herself introduced to
the wonderful world of horses at the late age of 13 when her parents
agreed to lease a horse for her. She started experiencing horses via
books from a young age and continues to do so, but recognises that
horses cannot be learnt solely from books.
She has been studying
horses from age 16, starting with the Certificate II in Horse Studies
and is currently undertaking her Bachelor of Equine Science via distance
education.
Christine has worked at numerous thoroughbred studs in Australia as well as overseas in Ireland for a breeding season.
She
then gained experience in a couple of Melbourne based horse riding
schools, instructing at a basic level before heading off overseas again,
this time to South Africa to spend hours in the saddle of endurance and
trail horses on the Wild Coast.
Particularly passionate about the
world of breeding horses, she teaches equine studies focused on
breeding, at a TAFE, Victoria, Australia.
